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Randy Schneider, 32, and Allen Evans, 39, partners in Generator
Nation, found direct selling to be a very effective way to reach
out to hurricane-ravaged communities that needed the permanent and
portable backup power systems their Fort Lauderdale, Florida,
company sells.

In the wake of the National Do Not Call Registry, some companies
are going door-to-door as an alternative outreach option. The
Direct Selling
Association, a direct-sales industry trade association, has
seen an increase in inquiries about door-to-door sales. But
don't knock until you've tried this:

Check local legislation. "It does seem like there
have been some increased efforts on [the] local level to put
restrictions on door-to-door sales," says John Webb, associate
legal counsel for the DSA. Some communities ban door-to-door
selling, while others require sellers to register at the town hall.
Call the municipality you're targeting to find out specifics,
or you could face fines.

Shelve the hard sell. "We ask if there is a time
when we can come back and give a consultation--we don't sell
right off the bat," says Schneider. This helps Generator
Nation reps gain trust.

Be identifiable. Wear a badge or other identification to
show customers that you're with a legitimate company.